How Can an LLM Degree Improve Your Law Career?
If you already have a JD degree and you’re practicing law, you might encounter situations where more legal knowledge would be helpful in the work you do. That’s where an LLM, or Master of Laws, degree comes in.
Uses for an LLM Degree
An LLM is a graduate-level qualification, which means you’ll need to already have a JD degree (as an American or Canadian student) to pursue it. Here are some reasons you might want to do so:
If you work in a specialized area of law, an LLM can help you expand your knowledge and extend your credentials in that area or field of practice.
If you’re an international lawyer, an LLM can give you exposure to U.S. or Canadian legal systems.
In some cases, earning an LLM can make internationally educated students eligible to take the bar exam. Other international lawyers use it as preparation for later entering a JD program in the U.S.
What’s Next?
If you think an LLM degree will help you move forward in your career, LawHub and LSAC have the resources to help you along the way:
Not every school that offers a JD program also offers an LLM program, but LSAC has a guide (opens in new browser window) you can use to find schools that do.
If you’re planning to apply to multiple LLM programs, signing up for the LLM Credential Assembly Service to save yourself time and work.